FAQ About Paint Protection

Q. How should surfaces be prepared before application of Paint Protection Film?
A. All surfaces must be cleaned prior to film application. Be sure to use a cleaner that will not leave a residue, such as Windex. On repainted vehicles, paint must be thoroughly dry and completely cured before any attempt to apply film to the vehicle is made, in order to avoid film bubbling due to paint outgassing.

Q. Is there a certain temperature at which Paint Protection Film must be applied?
A. The film should be applied when air and application surface temperatures are between 55° F – 90° F. Surfaces may be heated in order to raise the surface temperature. This may be done with a portable heater, heat lamps or hot water.

Q. Will Paint Protection Film harm the painted surface if the film is removed?
A. If the film is properly applied to a fully cured painted vehicle, it can be removed, usually in one piece, without damaging paint surfaces beneath the film.

Q. Can Paint Protection Film be applied over a vehicle that has had the paint touched up?
A. We recommend that any repainted surfaces on your vehicle be professionally painted and fully cured before applying paint protection film. If you have touched up scratches or chips with a tube of “touch-up” paint and then apply paint protection film over it, the film will protect that area until it is removed. If the paint protection film is removed, it is possible that the area around the non-professional touch-up paint could peel off.

Q. Will the paint smear if Paint Protection Film is applied over a newly painted vehicle?
A. The paint on a newly painted vehicle must be cured according to that manufacturer’s recommendations. Your body shop should be able to provide you with this information.

Q. Can you paint or apply a clearcoat over the Paint Protection Film?
A. No, this is not recommended and is at your own risk. Paint Protection film is supplied with an OEM-approved clearcoat which is not formulated to be over-printed, painted or clearcoated.

Q. Does Paint Protection Film resist yellowing?
A. Yes, it resists yellowing because the film is constructed of thermoplastic urethane, a tough, conformable material that is covered by a clear coat layer. The film and clear coat layers contain UV protectants to counteract harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause yellowing.

Q. How is Paint Protection Film maintained?
A. Once applied, refrain from washing the vehicle in an automated car wash for 24 hours. Washing after that time presents no problem, and no special care need be taken for the film.

Q. Can I use wax over Paint Protection Film?
A. Yes. When waxing the vehicle, some wax may build up along the film edges. This can easily be removed when dry with a soft brush such as an old toothbrush. Do not use any waxes containing dyes or waxes that are not recommended for urethanes. Abrasive polishes and/or rubbing compounds are not to be used.

Q. What areas are typically covered with Paint Protection Film?
A. The most common areas to cover with Paint Protection Film are the leading edges and high impact areas such as hood, fenders, mirrors, and front bumper. Other leading edges that could be covered are door edges, rocker panels, windshield pillars, and rear bumpers.

Q. Can the Paint Protection Film be removed?
A. Yes, it can be removed easily and without any damage to your paint. Cured film is best removed with heat.

Q. Will the vehicle’s paint fade underneath the Paint Protection Film?
A. No, the Paint Protection Film and clear coat layers contain UV protection which prevents the plastic from reacting to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. What this means is the unprotected and protected areas of the vehicle will fade evenly.

Q. How long will a typical installation take?
A. Most installations take from 3 to 5 hours.

Q. How long will the film last?
A. The film is has a warranted lifespan of 5 years.

Q. Can I see the film after it is installed?
A. The film is 99.5% clear. From a distance of 6 to 8 feet it is not immediately noticeable.